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47 pages 1 hour read

The Breakdown

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

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B.A. Paris

The Breakdown

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Breakdown, schoolteacher Cassandra "Cass" Anderson becomes enmeshed in the mystery of Jane Walters' murder after driving past her stranded car the night she was killed. Cass is tormented by guilt and fears she may have early-onset dementia due to her increasing forgetfulness. As Cass uncovers the truth, she faces betrayal and manipulation by those she trusts, ultimately leading to a shocking revelation about the people closest to her.

Suspenseful

Dark

Unnerving

Mysterious

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.0

162,992 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

B.A. Paris's The Breakdown receives mixed reviews. Readers praise its gripping psychological tension and unpredictable twists, enhancing its thriller appeal. However, criticism arises over its repetitive themes and one-dimensional characters, which some find detract from the story's overall impact. Fans of Paris will appreciate its familiar suspenseful style.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Breakdown?

Fans of psychological thrillers who enjoyed Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn and The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins will relish The Breakdown by B.A. Paris. This novel suits readers who appreciate suspenseful, twist-filled narratives that explore themes of memory, guilt, and psychological tension.

4.0

162,992 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Cass Anderson

A 34-year-old teacher and the protagonist, who navigates a complex emotional journey while dealing with familial dementia fears and pressures from relationships around her. Her story is told through a first-person perspective.

Cass's husband, who initially appears to be loving and supportive but becomes central to Cass's unfolding events. His actions and motivations play a key role in the story's tension.

Cass's best friend who is perceived as loyal and sisterly. She has a history with Cass that influences the dynamics of their friendship.

A woman connected to Cass, whose tragic death becomes a catalyst for the unfolding events in the story. Little is known about her, but her fate has a significant impact on Cass.

Jane's grieving husband who is left to care for their young twin daughters while the story unfolds. He provides an important perspective and support for Cass.

A fellow teacher and friend of Cass, known as a "heartthrob" among colleagues. His relationship with Cass adds complexity to the narrative.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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