I went back to read my previous Michaelides' reviews because I remember myself really loving his books. I had saved this book to read as a reward and was disappointed. Then I read my review of The Maidens and found I had done the same thing. It made me sit back and rethink my relationship with this author. Have I put him on too much of a pedestal and am expecting too much from him? Is this expectation ruining good reads? What I was prepared to rate a 3 I am now rating a 4. Why? Because I think had I not had any preconceived notions regarding the book, that is what I would have rated it. Afterall, it included several things I really enjoy in my reading and the plot was plausible, devious, and thoroughly enjoyable. Intriguing characters with depth and some fun surprising twists that kept me wondering and guessing until the end of the book! I need to remember this so I don't miss enjoying another good read!