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Impossible Causes

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About this listen

Bloomsbury presents Impossible Causes by Julie Mayhew, read by Julie Mayhew, Lissa Berry and Lauren Cornelius.

'A claustrophobic tale of outsiders versus insiders, religious fervour versus age-old paganism and, ultimately, women and men. A tightly told and powerful story of sins, lies and secrets long held' i


Four elements.
Four seasons.
Four points on the compass.
Four teenage girls.

And one dead body.

'This highly atmospheric tale is both thrilling and poignant' Heat

Eerie and menacing, timely and moving, Impossible Causes is a thrilling novel that examines the consequences of silence kept at young women’s expense.

©2019 Julie Mayhew (P)2019 Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Psychological Supernatural Suspense Thriller & Suspense Paranormal

Critic reviews

"Atmospheric and disorientating [...] A claustrophobic tale of outsiders versus insiders, religious fervour versus age-old paganism and, ultimately, women and men. A tightly told and powerful story of sins, lies and secrets long held." (Sarah Hughes, i)

"This highly imaginative novel and its meticulously created community of characters was an addictive read with twists and turns and a wonderful sense of place. Beautifully written, beguiling and compelling." (Lisa Ballantyne, author of The Guilty One)

"A beautiful piece of writing - hypnotically convincing, eerie and disturbing. Mayhew's is a voice I long to hear more of." (Alex Marwood, author of The Wicked Girls)
All stars
Most relevant
This is most certainly worth your credit, a well written and thought provoking tale that will creep you out and confuse you in equal measure. The confusion comes from not understanding exactly what is happening on the Island of Lark, although I was slightly disappointed at the big reveal, it was no great surprise but the story leading up to it was superlative.

Some reviewers of the read-it-yourself version have complained that the timeline is hard to follow, I found no such problem with this audio version, this could be thanks to the marvellous narrators, who make it easy to work out what is happening and when, they all did a great job with this book.

I wholeheartedly recommend this title to anyone who loves a good mystery.

Outstanding

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I loved this book. It was gripping in an unusual way and very well thought out and well written.

Enjoyably different

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A far too long and disjointed story with mostly all unlovable and unrelable characters but saved by good narration which allowed me to stagger on to the end. I may also, however, try another book by same writer as I appreciated the style of writing and use of words, just not this particular story.

A mixed bag

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Lots of words but not much meaning or sense. Little direction. Nonsense. Suitable for children? Not good.

Verbiage

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