In a short period of time, Abigail Dean has made quite an impact with her psychological thrillers, GIRL A and DAY ONE. I am pleased to report that she continues this success with her latest effort.

THE DEATH OF US features the South London Invader, whose modus operandi is quite similar to actual serial killers, and examines the aftermath of these attacks from a completely new perspective. Edward and Isabel are fortunate that they survived the killer that they now know to be retired policeman Nigel Wood. There was a casualty, however, and that was the instant destruction of their young marriage. THE DEATH OF US is a very apt title as it speaks directly to the fallout they suffer as survivors of this infamous killer.

"THE DEATH OF US is so introspective and deep that the outcome of the court case seems almost redundant.... It’s a brilliant concept that excels in both theory and delivery."

Chapters not only jump between Edward and Isabel, but also between the attack from 25 years earlier and the present day, as each character reconnects to testify at Nigel’s trial and finally see him brought to justice. In the chapters from Isabel’s perspective, she speaks directly to Nigel, calling him out on the twist of fate that allowed their paths to cross and letting him know the damage he did to their relationship.

In 1990, the incident that would forever change the lives of Edward and Isabel took place. We watch in shock from the sidelines as the once true love that began when they were schoolmates goes up in flames. The intimate details of their ill-fated evening with the South London Invader are released bit by bit, allowing us to observe as each narrative blow dooms their marriage.

Edward and Isabel are now married to other people. However, the loss of their first meaningful relationship has permeated each of their current ones to the point where Edward’s new wife already has left him. He is able to specifically tie this additional loss to the serial killer’s tally as she was simply unable to deal with the court case and inevitable reunion of him and Isabel that will come along with it. These are the unseen tragedies never discussed when the media speaks of the lives lost at the hands of various killers. The long-range impact can be immeasurable.

THE DEATH OF US is so introspective and deep that the outcome of the court case seems almost redundant. Abigail Dean already put Edward and Isabel's relationship on trial, and the verdict did not go their way. It’s a brilliant concept that excels in both theory and delivery.