The Child

by Fiona Barton
The Child cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Thriller/Suspense
Technical:
  • ID: 1583
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9781473526938
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2017-06-29
  • Formats: 12
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99
Bookshop
Format • £9.49–£12.34

When a brief paragraph in an evening newspaper resurfaces a long-forgotten tragedy, it captures the attention of three strangers, each with their own connection to the past. For one woman, it's a painful reminder of her deepest loss; for another, it's a terrifying hint that her darkest secret might be exposed; and for a journalist, it's the beginning of an investigation that could unravel a decades-old mystery. As the story of 'The Child' begins to unravel, the lives of these three individuals become intertwined in a gripping tale of deception and revelation. Fiona Barton, the author of 'The Widow' and 'The Suspect', crafts a suspenseful narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With its authentic details and a killer twist, 'The Child' is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. The novel explores themes of loss, guilt, and the consequences of hidden truths, making it a compelling and unforgettable read.

Reviews
Amazon · 2025-10-08
irresistible 4.50

The story is described as engrossing and irresistible, making it a fabulous read that the reviewer loved.

This reviewer was completely captivated by 'The Child,' finding it to be an engrossing and irresistible story. They loved how the narrative unfolds, revealing a long-buried secret that keeps the pages turning. The emotional depth and suspenseful elements made it a fabulous read, one that they couldn't put down. It's a book that thrill-seekers and mystery lovers alike will adore.

Quick quotes

    An engrossing, irresistible story about the coming to light of a long-buried secret.

    An absolutely fabulous read - I loved it!

    The emotional depth and suspenseful elements make this a must-read.

Chick Who Reads Everything · 2020-05-11
engaging 4.00

The book is seen as an improvement over its predecessor, with the protagonist Kate making the story more engaging.

This reviewer felt that 'The Child' is a step up from Barton's previous work, largely due to the protagonist Kate. They enjoyed the way her character was explored, making the story more relatable and engaging. The narrative style was familiar but improved, keeping the reader hooked with its suspenseful twists and turns. It's a book that thriller lovers will appreciate for its well-crafted mystery and compelling characters.

Quick quotes

    While The Child by Fiona Barton is similar in style to its predecessor, it is a slight improvement.

    Having Kate as the protagonist creates a more engaging and relatable story.

    The narrative style is familiar but improved, keeping the reader hooked with its suspenseful twists and turns.

Crime by the Book · 2017-04-11
engrossing 4.50

The novel is praised for its emotional depth and satisfying plot twist, making it a compelling character-driven suspense story.

This reviewer loved how Barton crafted a story that really gets under your skin. They appreciated the emotional depth and the way the characters were developed, making the suspense feel personal. The final plot twist was particularly satisfying, tying everything together in a way that left a lasting impression. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page, thanks to its heartfelt storytelling and gripping narrative.

Quick quotes

    Barton has crafted a character-driven suspense novel that packs an emotional punch, with a deeply satisfying final plot twist.

    The story is told through multiple perspectives, which adds layers to the mystery and keeps the reader engaged.

    This is a novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Appears in Lists