Quick Pick book review: The Girl Before, by J.P. Delaney

• Opening lines: It's a lovely little flat, the agent says with what could almost pass for genuine enthusiasm. Close to the amenities. And there's that private bit of roof. That could become a sun terrace, subject of course to the landlord's consent.
• Reason I picked up the book: I was looking for a non-YA book to read (I had just read a few in succession) and this one sounded good and was on NetGalley.
• And what's this book about?In the tradition of The Girl on the Train, The Silent Wife, and Gone Girl comes an enthralling psychological thriller that spins one woman's seemingly good fortune, and another woman's mysterious fate, through a kaleidoscope of duplicity, death, and deception.
  
  
Please make a list of every possession you consider essential to your life.

The request seems odd, even intrusive—and for the two women who answer, the consequences are devastating.

Emma
Reeling from a traumatic break-in, Emma wants a new place to live. But none of the apartments she sees are affordable or feel safe. Until One Folgate Street. The house is an architectural masterpiece: a minimalist design of pale stone, plate glass, and soaring ceilings. But there are rules. The enigmatic architect who designed the house retains full control: no books, no throw pillows, no photos or clutter or personal effects of any kind. The space is intended to transform its occupant—and it does.

Jane
After a personal tragedy, Jane needs a fresh start. When she finds One Folgate Street she is instantly drawn to the space—and to its aloof but seductive creator. Moving in, Jane soon learns about the untimely death of the home’s previous tenant, a woman similar to Jane in age and appearance. As Jane tries to untangle truth from lies, she unwittingly follows the same patterns, makes the same choices, crosses paths with the same people, and experiences the same terror, as the girl before.
• Favorite paragraph: (Jane) "It simply isn't possible," I say flatly. "I do know Edward. He wouldn't hit anyone."
  
  "Not all abuse is physical," Carol says quietly. "The need for absolute control is another kind of ill treatment."
  
  Absolute control. The words hit me like a slap. Because I can see that, viewed a certain way, they fit. 
• Recommended for: Anyone who likes thrillers or mystery books. 
• Something to know: Edward, the man in the book who both Jane and Emma date (at two different times), reminded me a bit of Mr. Grey from Fifty Shades of Grey, in that he always liked to be in control. 
• What I would have changed: Nothing I can think of.
• Overall rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
• Where can I find this book? Click here to order on Amazon.
  
  *Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for reviewing purposes. The opinions expressed here, however, are my own.