When Megan wakes up in hospital her only concern is the whereabouts of her baby son, Luca. The only problem is that everyone around her tells her she doesn't have a baby and has never been pregnant. Megan isn't actually in hospital, she's in a psychiatric unit having had a psychotic episode but no matter how often she's told there is no baby Megan still isn't convinced.
This was an engrossing psychological thriller that had me wondering and doubting throughout. Whilst Megan is convinced she's given birth to a baby boy she keeps getting the same message from those around her that there is no baby. Everyone, including her husband, her sister and her psychiatrist, are adamant that Megan believes she was pregnant because of a psychotic break.
As Megan fights for more control over her life she keeps having vague memories that involve her baby but each time those around her have reasonable excuses that explain why she's wrong. Just like Megan the reader is full of doubt as to what is real and what isn't.
At times the story retreats to the past, when Megan and her husband were dating as older teens and we discover that issues with mental health figured in both their families. This adds possible evidence to the story that Megan has had a breakdown.
The psychiatrist treating Megan has a sinister bearing. His background reveals questionable treatment methods, Megan is heavily medicated and even nursing staff question his actions. This character really adds to unsettling nature of the story.
Right up to the conclusion you are wondering if a baby ever existed and when we discover the reveal there are still a few twists left. My only criticism of this audiobook is that I felt the story was a little repetitive at times and could have been pared down slightly.
Believe Me Not by Natalie Chandler is available in audio, paperback and ebook format. My thanks to NetGalley and Headline Audio for a review copy.
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