This was a very good debut thriller. It was well written and the characters were interesting and believable. The author did a great job of describing the location and details of the house and the grounds. I would have liked to know a little more about both Nina's and Emily's childhoods but not knowing did add to the mystery. And with Scott's high profile job, I did find it a little strange that his wife's absence was not more of an issue. I liked how the chapters alternated between Emily and Scott with Nina's thoughts added in here and there as well. This will make a great vacation or beach read this summer. I look forward to reading more by Anna Downes. I received a ARC of this book from the publisher.