2018 Apr 29
To the outside world, they seem to have it all. Cassie Barrett, a renowned anthropologist, and Alex Rivers, one of Hollywood’s hottest actors, met on the set of a motion picture in Africa. They shared childhood tales, toasted the future, and declared their love in a fairy-tale wedding. But when they return to California, something alters the picture of their perfect marriage. A frightening pattern is taking shape—a cycle of hurt, denial, and promises, thinly veiled by glamour. Torn between fear and something that resembles love, Cassie wrestles with questions she never dreamed she would face: How can she leave? Then again, how can she stay?
One of Picoult’s most well-crafted novels, Picture Perfect does a brilliant job of showcasing the reality behind an apparently perfect marriage. Although many of Picoult’s novels tend to take on a long-winded strain towards the middle, Picture Perfect is one of the few exceptions. Every storyline and chapter simply adds more to the riveting plot and is necessary to help the reader fit the pieces together.
Many novels and works of fiction attempt to tackle the sensitive topic of domestic abuse, yet fail with regards to the accuracy and reality of these depictions. Yet, Picture Perfect does it right. The slow horrifying reveals, and the realistic way in which each character is portrayed keeps you hooked right until the very end. The twist at the end of this one is worth it, and is one of Picoult’s best endings yet. If you’re looking for a book that will keep you busy the entire weekend, give this one a go.
Rating: 4.5/5
