Review of Seems Perfect by K.C. Archer
It’s not often that a thriller grabs me by the throat and doesn’t let go, but Seems Perfect by K.C. Archer did just that. When I first stumbled upon the premise—a yoga instructor grappling with financial instability and an unwelcome roommate dynamic—I was immediately intrigued. With the promise of secrets, tension, and a meticulously crafted plot, I knew I had to dive in. Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the eARC, which releases on February 25, 2025!
At its core, Seems Perfect explores the complexities of trust, desperation, and the fraying edges of sanity, all tightly wound into the life of Emily Hawthorne, a 32-year-old yoga instructor facing mountains of debt. Taking in Penelope "Pip" Stone and her daughter Sofie felt like a practical solution at first, but soon, Emily’s decision turns into a psychological labyrinth of control and chaos. From the moment Pip steps into her life, Emily’s world starts to unravel in unexpected—and sometimes terrifying—ways. The tension builds beautifully as a murder casts a shadow over their home, forcing Emily to navigate her tumultuous relationship with Pip while balancing her sanity amidst the chaos.
The pacing of Archer’s writing is sharp and engaging, drawing readers in with vivid descriptions and relatable emotional stakes. As I read, I felt the tightening grip of Emily’s anxiety mirrored by my own rising unease. The prose flows effortlessly, making it easy to lose track of time as I turned page after page, hanging on every twist and turn. The quote, "The thing that sets my teeth on edge is that I’ve been totally played," resonated deeply with me. It captures the essence of betrayal—the feeling of being used, which permeates the entire story.
While I genuinely enjoyed the thrill ride, I had my gripes about Emily as a protagonist. As much as I rooted for her escape from the mess she found herself in, I often wanted to scream at her for her naiveté. Her decisions—like placing a roommate ad on Craigslist without a thought—seemed reckless, and I found myself questioning her common sense throughout the story. It’s a double-edged sword; her foolishness drives the plot but also made it difficult for me to empathize completely with her situation.
Archer also adds depth by offering glimpses into Pip’s perspective, which provided crucial context to her character. Despite Emily’s follies, I found myself equally curious about Pip’s backstory, wanting to understand the motives behind her actions.
In conclusion, if you’re someone who enjoys fast-paced thrillers with a touch of psychological complexity, Seems Perfect may just become your next favorite read. As I navigated this journey of deception and survival, I felt a mix of anxiety and exhilaration that is hard to articulate. This book not only entertained me but also reminded me of the fragile threads of trust that hold our relationships—and our lives—together. I can’t wait for more readers to experience this nail-biting ride!
⭐️ 3.5 stars, rounded down to 3 for Emily’s excess naiveté, but the experience was definitely worth it!