Twilight by Peter James

Three words to describe this book: Gripping, chilling and memorable

International best-selling crime thriller novelist Peter James has the ability to transport you into an almost unrealistic, fantasy world with his writing, which is exactly what he does in his 1991 novel Twilight.  A book not for the faint hearted, Peter’s way with words has the potential of making you scared to read on whilst making it impossible for you to put it down.

The three books that I have read by Peter James all have an interesting take on somewhat controversial issues in science such as plastic surgery, designer babies, and this one is the question over whether or not there is life after death.

The eerie description of a graveyard in the first chapter perfectly sets the chilling tone that remains throughout the entire book. It opens with the sound of three thuds coming from the grave of newly-wed girl, Sally McKenzie that is heard by the verger. Has this girl been buried alive?

During the story, time shifts from 1967 with the tale of sinister teenager Harvey Swire and to 1990 with young reporter Kate Hemingway who is determined to unearth the truth about the grave.

Despite being very different from each other, both main characters have experienced a somewhat traumatic history that influences their decisions and actions throughout the book. Kate is a likeable character who I wanted to discover the truth, but at the same was slightly worried about what the consequence would be. Harvey on the other hand, I had little compassion for which made him a great villain and I wanted to see how far he would go next.

Whilst the plot started to unravel, there were no major surprises but I always wanted to read on. What did continue to shock me was Peter’s ability to push boundaries with some of the events that happen in the book which are only made more unnerving by his detailed descriptions. 

I won’t give any more of the actual plot away because you have to read it to truly appreciate how captivating and almost unsettling it is. From the unnerving beginning, right up until the powerful ending, I would recommend this book to any fans of mystery thrillers who want to read a book that they just won’t be able to stop talking about.