Review: Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris

On the surface, Jack and Grace have the perfect marriage.  It was love at first sight; their wedding followed just a few months later. Jack built her the dream house she wanted, including a bedroom for her sister, Millie, who suffers from Down's Syndrome.  They have lavish parties for which Grace prepares the most tantalizing of menus.  Jack is a prominent attorney who represents battered women. He's so successful that he asks Grace to quite her job, one that requires her to travel overseas on a regular basis.

Grace is invited to social outings like coffee or lunch.  Yet she is never able to attend,  always having an excuse as to why she cannot attend.  If she does make an appearance, Jack is always by her side.  Perfect marriage, or perfect nightmare?

This title was one on my most anticipated books of August. I was intrigued by the praise it’s received already so I looked forward to reading it.  From the first pages it was captivating; Jack and Grace did seem to have the perfect relationship. He took her on lavish trips, doted on her when in the presence of others.  Yet what happened behind closed doors was completely different.

While it was so captivating, what Grace endured, and what Jack shelled out, was disturbing. I wanted to throw the book several times, frustrated by Grace’s situation, but unable to tear my eyes away from what I was reading.

Told in alternating timelines, past and present, we follow Jack and Grace from their romantic chance meeting to their current situation.  What Grace endured was terrifying.  I was frustrated by her lack of action, yet also sympathetic to her situation.  It wasn’t her own life she was protecting, but her sister’s as well.

The tone of the book didn’t get any easier as I continued, but I stuck with it. I was ultimately rewarded with satisfaction and closure but wow, what a ride.

Certainly not a read for those of the weak of heart or mind.  After reading this book, I was unable to sleep, remnants of its after effects still lingering in my mind.  This is definitely one of those titles readers will either love or hate, with little in between. Recommended…but with warning!