Good Girl, Bad Girl

In this first book of a new series, readers are introduced to two impeccably flawed main characters and a story that doesn't let up. The series stars Cyrus Haven, a forensic psychologist who gets pulled into the life of Evie, a troubled teenager with a dark and disturbing past. Cyrus also has a dark past of his own. Suffice it to say, this thriller has a darker feel as these two survivors, each with their own flaws, strengths and mystery surrounding their pasts, create a unique bond between them. 

There are two plots within this story which are told through the POVs of Cyrus and Evie.  This bird's eye view helps readers get to know both characters who are a scarred, resilient and compelling duo. 

The first story line focuses on Evie, the mysterious teen who lived through hell and continues to struggle with her brutal past and her unique ability. The second story follows the murder of a 15-year-old figure skater. The murder was intriguing and comes with several red herrings, but it was the mystery surrounding Evie's past, her relationship with Cyrus and a surprising revelation that I found most compelling. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this gritty, dark and engaging read and I appreciate the depth Robotham gives his characters. He has created a compelling duo whose struggles and ability to survive set them a step above typical main characters. I'm eager to see where he takes this new series and I'm hoping that Cyrus and Evie have more encounters in upcoming books. 

My Rating: 4 stars

Author: Michael Robotham

Genre: Suspense

Type: Hardcover (400 pages)

Series: #1 in Cyrus Haven series

Source: Local Public Library

Publisher: Sphere

First Published: July 23, 2019

Book Description from GoodReads: A girl is found hiding in a secret room in a house being renovated after a terrible crime. For weeks she has survived by sneaking out at night, stealing food for herself and two dogs that are kept in the garden. The nurses at the hospital where she is taken call her “Angel Face” because she won’t tell anyone her name, or her age, or where she came from. Maybe she is twelve, maybe fifteen, or somewhere in between. She doesn’t appear on any missing person’s file, or match the DNA of any murder victim.

Six years later, still unidentified, the same girl is living in a secure children’s home with a new name, Evie Cormac, when she initiates a court case demanding the right to be released as an adult. Psychologist Cyrus Haven is sent to interview Evie and decide if she’s ready to go free, but Evie Cormac is unlike he’s anyone he’s ever met. She’s damaged, destructive, and self-hating, yet possessed of a gift, or a curse, that makes her both fascinating and dangerous to be with—the ability to tell when someone is lying. Soon he is embroiled in her unique and dangerous world, his life in utmost peril.