Review by: Madeline Hobbs

The Turn of the Key is the first book I ever read by Ruth Ware, and it’s safe to say I’ve been hooked on her work ever since! Ware writes so eloquently, descriptively, and vividly. Her twists are some of the most shocking out there, and she’s fully earned the title of this generation’s Agatha Christie.

The Turn of the Key is perfect for this time just between summer and fall since the story is very gothic but is set toward the end of summer. Let’s see if you’ll enjoy it, shall we?

Synopsis: Rowan Caine thought she landed the nannying job of a lifetime—luxury salary, stunning smart-home in the Scottish Highlands, and a perfect family on the outside. But from the moment she arrives, the house feels wrong. The cameras watch. The children whisper. The house has a mind of its own. And then, someone dies.

Now Rowan is sitting in a prison cell, accused of murder, and her only hope is to untangle the secrets buried in that house before the truth dies with her.

TW: themes of child death, suspense, stalking, and violence are present throughout.

Plot Twists: ****/*****

Sexual Content: ***/*****

Profanity: **/*****

Character Development: ****/*****

Political Agenda: */*****

Overall Rating: ****/*****

My Thoughts: This will forever be one of my favorite books ever. The suspense and premise of this story is unmatched in anything else I’ve read. Through Rowan’s letters from prison, you get an interesting glimpse into the MC’s own mind as she discovers and conceals some of the largest twists of the book. The location of the story is breathtaking, and so beautifully described. It’s just the cherry on top of the house, the family, and the feeling of constantly being watched.

I will warn you; the ending is kind of sad. I wasn’t sobbing by the end of it, but it is one that just makes your heart ache.

Not going to lie, this review is making me want to read this story all over again! Who’s with me?