When Alice and Leo move into a newly renovated house in The Circle, a gated community of exclusive houses, it is everything they’ve dreamed of. But appearances can be deceptive… Behind Closed Doors, a series of live music performances recorded for the Dutch multimedia platform 3voor12 Triggers & warnings: Severe psychological abuse; non-violent but very disturbing. There is also a dog - I'll just leave it at that *sob* I loved that Behind Closed doors really is thought provoking, it made me as a reader think of what I would do in Lucy's position, and I completely changed my opinion of her as a character the more I read her story. On the inside, her husband is a controlling bully who manipulates and belittles Lucy and her career whilst flaunting his many affairs in front of her with little respect for everyone concerned. Lucy has been made to feel worthless and almost as though she deserves the way her husband treats her. When her marriage ends suddenly, she has the chance to start afresh and find the Lucy that has been buried for too long along with some much needed happiness and joy.

Lucy narrating in the first person drew me in from the beginning. It was so easy to identify with her and when I had finished the story, I really did miss her! She is a strong, loving and funny woman. Someone you want to be good mates with. I loved that after spending so many years in silence, she loses the filter. Liberating to say what you’re thinking 🙂Behind Closed Doors” is a heartwarming and engaging story focusing on domestic abuse, aging parents, starting over and dealing with emotions that can make or break your world. Funny at times but still handling the delicate subject matters with empathy and warmth and I’d be happy to read the previous books this author has written.

This book left me with a huge smile on face, but it didn’t start that way as it’s quite dark and sad in places. I have been wanting to read Behind Closed Doors for quite some time. When it was available on NetGalley I requested it right away but unfortunately was denied. I think that just made me want it more! Behind Closed Doors" was a thrilling read with many twists and turns that left me reeling. A thoroughly engrossing novel that I won't soon forget. And when will she get any time to herself and an opportunity to even do anything remotely like changing her life situation.The story is told in the first person perspective, with Lucy narrating, but I did enjoy how this book felt different to many others I’ve read, where Lucy felt as if she was speaking to us as if talking to a friend. The book does contain some dark decriptions including a death that is not gory but the way it occured might be difficult for some to read, as well as some relationship abuse and swearing including some very strong language, although this wasn’t very frequent. For me, there is no doubt that Catherine Alliott is an accomplished and skilful writer. The cleverly constructed plot, well-drawn characters, relatable themes, and easy-to-read and intelligent prose make for an enjoyable and compelling read. I finished Behind Closed Doors with a happy heart. This books raises too many questions I'd love to ask the author. How could they "forgive" their mother, why did they let Carol and Kris stay in that home (even the aunt never took care of them! ) and most importantly, how on earth is there a photo of Kim's son with his grandparents?!! Why did Laurence go away after Kris's death? I always thought that Jenny, Kim and him had a great relationship and in the end they'd be all together. I finished Behind Closed Doors about half an hour ago, and my heart still feels like it’s racing, probably not helped by me forgetting to breathe throughout the majority of the book. I found myself wishing I could read faster, just so I had a chance to catch my breath. Make sure you read this with a glass of wine or a box of chocolates, as they may save your life by distracting you from the story long enough to remind you oxygen is an essential part of survival. Whilst the start of the story dealt with some heavy topics, as the story progressed the clouds started to part and the sunshine shone through, in the form of Lucy’s parents! I found myself giggling at their funny ways, raucous parties and candid nature. Their neighbours were very funny and they just reminded me of a group of teenagers! I also appreciated the quieter moments where Lucy’s parents showed their appreciation for her help. It must of been hard for them to lose some of that independence and accept that whilst they were capable of looking after themselves they did need someone to give them a helping hand.