Innocence vs Experience

The Art Of Deception by Louise Mangos is a complex contemporary crime drama that consumed me from the start.

The action alternates between present day and seven years earlier. The reader witnesses the build up to present circumstances. Louise Mangos has produced an intricate plotline. The novel deals with truth and lies, reality and twisted events. The reader realizes that the innocent are being set up but we are powerless to intervene. Money, power and influence talk. We long to see the underdog rise up.

A mother’s love is a powerful force. It can be used for good or ill. In its purest form it is protective and nurturing. Twisted love is not easy to watch.

The novel has the difficult themes of domestic abuse and manipulation.

Friendship is found in the most unexpected places.

Unsolved old crimes intersect with modern day events as we see evil intent perpetuated down the ages.

Much of the novel is set within the walls of a woman’s prison. Far from being gloomy, there is camaraderie between inmates.

The Art Of Deception was a marvelous read. It was complex and well thought out and would make a fabulous television drama.

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

A word of caution: there were a couple of bedroom scenes with far too much detail for me. I skipped over the scenes. It did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.

JULIA WILSON