Carey Baldwin – Her First Mistake

‘Her First Mistake’ by Carey Baldwin is a ‘gripping psychological thriller with a breathtaking twist’. This is from the front cover of the book, and it is most definitely that. This is my first read by Carey Baldwin so I had no expectations but I can tell you, I will have high ones next time around.

Mia, who at six years old was locked in a shed by her mum. One day Mia had to dig her way out as she realised she had been there far too long. Her mother was gone so she lived with a relative. Fast forward and Mia is an unassuming pre-school teacher who has just discovered that all her colleagues had been meeting up for drinks every month for the previous twelve months. She only discovers this as she goes to meet someone, they don’t turn up and she sees the group. They do ask if she wants to join them, but the seed is planted now. As the evening carries on Mia makes her first mistake.

The story is narrated in third person with Mia being the main character. I tend to think you get more involved with the story told in this manner as you can see the bigger picture, even if you can’t rely on Mia as she can’t even remember certain moments.

An absolutely absorbing and intriguing story. The character development was perfect, so strong and realistic even down to Casey, who, at times was as strong as she needed to be with the grit to get things done and then we see her retreating into her shell. This is more normal than you would think, some people have masks they put on and, for protection I think Casey had hers. If I had been subject to what Casey had, in the past and the present I may be the same. My heart went out to her.

This book certainly had me turning the pages and when every time I thought I had it I was wrong! Carey Baldwin certainly knows how to create a story full of suspense and mystery.

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the copy of the book.