One step too far

What would make a woman with a successful career, a happy family and a devoted husband leave it all behind to start a new life?

Emily Coleman is running away. She leaves Manchester with nothing but a small suitcase and a little money. Her family receives no explanation. In fact they do not know where in the world she is. On the same day, Cat Brown arrives in London with nothing but a small suitcase, a little money and a big secret.

Slowly, Emily transforms her life and identity until she really becomes Cat Brown. But how easy is it to forget your past? Does running away make what you left behind any easier to accept?

One Step Too Far is a compelling read. I had to discover the reason behind Emily's escape. Was I disappointed? No, I might have done the same in her situation. But I do think some readers may find her actions unforgivable and selfish.

The narrative structure of the novel is quite fragmented, and I found this literary technique a bit jarring in the beginning of the book. However, once I became accustomed to switching between 1st and 3rd person narrative, I found it to be quite a clever tool. Emily's voice is in 1st person, while the other character's points of views are always in 3rd person.

While I didn't fall in love with any of the characters, I didn't detest them either. Emily's housemates in London in particular are a quirky, interesting bunch and her aptly named saviour, Angel, while misguided, has a certain lovable quality about her. My only quarrel with the characterisation is poor Caroline, Emily's wayward twin sister. Without spoiling the ending, let's just say her story ended a bit too abruptly and without any sensitivity.

One Step Too Far will keep you guessing and will ultimately pose the question: what would I do if I were in Emily's shoes?