Let me start by saying this book had me hooked from the very first page. Catherine's writing is so sharp and evocative that you can practically feel the tension dripping off every sentence. The way she captures that slippery slope of 'just one more' decision is both terrifying and mesmerizing.

What really sets this apart from other thrillers? The characters actually use their brains! No more screaming at the book when protagonists do obviously stupid things. When Erin decides to bring a gun to a dangerous meeting, she actually prepares - watching videos, practicing loading and firing. Finally, characters who think ahead like real people would!

The psychological depth here is incredible. The subtle gaslighting between Erin and Mark sent chills down my spine. Catherine paints such a realistic portrait of how abusive dynamics can start with just words and looks. There were moments I had to put the book down just to process what I'd read.

Now for some real talk - this isn't your typical good vs evil story. The main characters live firmly in moral gray areas (and sometimes pitch black). If you need clear heroes to root for, this might not be your cup of tea. But if you appreciate complex, flawed humans making messy decisions? You'll love this.

The pacing does have some issues - the beginning builds slowly while the ending feels rushed. I found myself wishing for more red flags planted earlier and a less abrupt conclusion. That said, I still devoured this in two sittings (including an embarrassingly long bathroom break where I just kept reading).

Final verdict? A gripping psychological thriller that will make you question how far you'd go when pushed to your limits. Just don't start it on a work night - you won't be putting it down until dawn.