Book Review – The Betrayals

The Betrayals by Fiona Neill (Penguin) ISBN 978-1-405-92345-3

The Betrayals is a twisted and obsessive story about the Rankin family. It’s the sordid tale of a man’s decision and how it affects the people around him.

Rosie and Lisa were the best of friends, both married with two children. One summer, Rosie’s husband Nick has an affair with Lisa and breaks up both families. Rosie throws herself into her career and passes time with a few men on tinder.

Her daughter Daisy’s hold on reality begins to unravel, her teenage son Max blames himself for everything which happened that long hot summer. And her Nick has his own version of events.

Daisy develops OCD and it completely takes over her life. From irrational fears and intense routines, Daisy finally gets counselling and finds a way to live with her condition.

A few years later, Rosie, now a successful oncologist receives a letter from her former friend. Although she hasn’t forgiven her for the betrayal, Rosie acknowledges that Lisa needs her.

The Betrayals is a story about how we remember certain things and how we all deal with things in different ways.

Alicia Sibanda
3/5