Here To Stay by Mark Edwards

When the in-laws outstay their welcome. A simple story, simply told. A nightmare. ​

​ As with all of Mark Edwards' books this is an everyday situation that becomes sinister. The story remains focused and waffle-free, the tension cleverly building until dreadful truths come to light. The kind of story with which we can all identify even if our in-laws are lovely.

I worried about the cat as I have had cat-haters and cat-allergic visitors too. There is always the concern that someone may be mean to my cat. Suffice to say, the cat is the only character I cared about. The other -human- characters have no likable qualities and sometimes are a tad incredulous. The elusive youngest daughter (the narrator's sister-in-law)) is intriguing though.

So the only one to root for is the narrator: the put-upon new husband and householder. To a point there is some sympathy for him but mostly it is frustration. Why does he put up with this obnoxious behaviour and what will he do about it? Interesting to see how the law in Britain deals with such situations. If it's true, that is. I am assured by Edwards that this is how it is in this country. Makes you kind of nervous about inviting anyone over...

​Edwards really is a master storyteller. He delivers his tale well, easy to read , compelling. I enjoyed this book and read it quickly. Easy to see why Mark Edwards is a best-selling author. Recommended.

Published by Thomas and Mercer on 1 September 2019. Advanced review copy supplied by the publisher.


Other books by Mark Edwards include The Magpies, Follow You Home, The Devil's Work.