The Perfect Child

Lucinda Berry
59 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Adult
Published in 2019

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Book Brief

Lucinda Berry

The Perfect Child

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

370

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • Contemporary

Theme
Love

•

Marriage

•

Mothers
First Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Perfect Child by Lucinda Berry follows a couple who adopt a traumatized child. As they navigate the challenges of parenting her, tension escalates, revealing disturbing secrets. The story delves into themes of family, trust, and the impact of trauma.

Dark

Unnerving

Emotional

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.1

329,353 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Perfect Child by Lucinda Berry is widely praised for its gripping and intense narrative that delves into psychological complexities and family dynamics. However, some readers felt the plot was predictable and certain character behaviors unrealistic. Overall, it is recommended for those who enjoy dark, emotional thrillers but may not satisfy everyone’s expectations on plot depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Perfect Child?

Readers who enjoy suspenseful psychological thrillers like Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn or The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins will be captivated by Lucinda Berry's The Perfect Child. Fans of complex characters, unsettling twists, and domestic suspense will find this book hard to put down.

4.1

329,353 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

One of the protagonists and narrators, Hannah is a nurse who is deeply influenced by her desire to become a mother; she navigates complex emotions and challenges after meeting Janie.

Hannah's husband, an orthopedic surgeon who is devoted to both Hannah and Janie; he grapples with the changing dynamics in his family after bringing Janie into their lives.

A central secondary character, Janie is a young girl with a traumatic past whose presence significantly impacts the Bauer household; she forms a close bond with Christopher but not with Hannah.

The social worker assigned to the Bauer case, Piper provides insights into the complexities of the family's situation through her interactions and perspectives.

Hannah's sister, she is a supportive and concerned figure who raises questions about the difficulties of adopting Janie; she stands as a voice of caution within the family dynamics.

Janie's therapist, who aids the Bauer family by diagnosing Janie's psychological needs; she plays a key role in guiding how the family addresses Janie's behavior and needs.

Book Details
Pages

370

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • Contemporary

Theme
Love

•

Marriage

•

Mothers
First Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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