Ruth Ware delivers a Gothic-tinged psychological thriller that will satisfy readers craving atmospheric mystery with a dash of family drama. The story follows Hal Westaway, a struggling tarot card reader who receives a letter about an inheritance meant for someone else. Desperate for money after her mother's death, Hal decides to impersonate the intended recipient and claim the bequest. What follows is a tense game of deception as Hal navigates the suspicious Westaway family while uncovering dark secrets about their matriarch's death.

This book excels at creating an unsettling Gothic atmosphere. Ware's descriptions of the crumbling Trepassen House, with its maze-like hedgerows and oppressive family portraits, evoke classic Rebecca vibes. The pacing builds steadily as Hal digs deeper into family history, and Ware skillfully maintains tension through Hal's constant fear of exposure. The tarot card framework adds an intriguing mystical element without overwhelming the realistic thriller plot.

Hal makes for a compelling protagonist—morally gray enough to keep readers guessing, but sympathetic in her desperation. The supporting cast of Westaway family members each harbors believable secrets, though some feel slightly underdeveloped. Ware handles themes of family trauma, inheritance disputes, and the lengths people go to survive with nuanced complexity.

However, the book suffers from some pacing issues in the middle act, where family revelations occasionally feel repetitive. The resolution, while satisfying, relies on coincidences that may strain credibility for some readers. Additionally, readers expecting fast-paced action should know this is more slow-burn psychological suspense than edge-of-your-seat thriller.

This book is perfect for fans of atmospheric mysteries, Gothic fiction enthusiasts, and readers who enjoyed Ware's previous novels. It will also appeal to those who like morally complex protagonists and family secret plots. Skip it if you prefer straightforward mysteries without psychological complexity, dislike slow-building tension, or want protagonists who are clearly heroic from the start. Overall, it's a solid entry in the psychological thriller genre that prioritizes mood and character development over shocking twists.