Book Review | The Heights by Louise Candlish

During a meeting with a client, Ellen Saint gazes at the rooftop terrace of the exclusive building next door called “The Heights”. She sees a man standing there and to her disbelief, she recognises him. But that’s not possible. Because he’s supposed to be dead.

Ellen embarks on the search for truth as she relives the tragedy in her past that leads her to life-changing decisions. She wants to destroy the man she believes is responsible, but she might end up destroying her own life too.

Kieran Watts has been dead for over two years when I see him standing on the roof of a building in Shad Thames.  

What would you do if you know who caused your child’s death? Would you take justice into your hands?

The Heights is the story of a grieving mother with a vengeance and her choices that cause a ripple in the lives of others. I thought this is an intriguing book that captures my attention immediately from the start. For once, the conflict is between a mother and her son’s friend. Ellen is clearly privileged and has ideas about the boy her son befriends, yet how reliable is she? Is he as hostile as she suspects? I liked that the book doesn’t excuse Ellen’s behaviour even though she has her reasons to be distrustful of Kieran.

I loved the tense interactions between Ellen and Kieran in the past, and the anxious questions she has about him in the present. Ellen’s ex-husband is also involved and plays a part in how everything unravels. While a certain subplot stretches credulity, I thought it makes sense in the hands of a woman on the edge of a breakdown. Her frustration is understandable when she discovers not everyone in her life has been truthful to her. This book brings up interesting ideas about accountability, class differences, and whether revenge is worth it. Everything builds up to a shocking ending that flips the ideas previously established.

The Heights is a thriller that’s willing to ask tough questions and perfect for fans who are looking for something outside the box.

I received a copy from the publisher and Netgalley for review purposes.

About the author: Louise Candlish

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