Pet

Pet by Catherine Chidgey is a masterfully woven psychological thriller that delves into the depths of deception, guilt, and the dark facets of human nature. The novel follows twelve-year-old Justine, an impressionable girl who is captivated by her new, charismatic teacher, Ms. Price. Justine, like her peers, becomes enamoured with Ms. Price's sophistication and allure, longing to be her favourite pupil, her "pet."

However, beneath this seemingly idyllic surface, an unsettling mystery begins to unravel at the school. When a series of thefts occur, targeting both students and teachers, Justine's burgeoning infatuation with Ms. Price is overshadowed by a gnawing suspicion. As the narrative weaves through intricate twists, the thin veneer of charm begins to fracture, revealing a chilling tale of betrayal and the destructive force of guilt.

Set against the contrasting backdrops of New Zealand in 1984 and 2014, Pet provides a rich, atmospheric context that highlights the evolving societal attitudes towards racism and misogyny. Chidgey's portrayal of these themes is both thought-provoking and unsettling, urging readers to confront the darker sides of human behaviour.

As Justine navigates the treacherous landscape of adolescence and moral ambiguity, she is faced with harrowing decisions that will test her loyalties and shape her future. Catherine Chidgey, acclaimed for her bestselling works The Wish Child, Remote Sympathy, and The Axeman's Carnival, brings her signature elegance and chilling storytelling to this memorable novel. The result is a compelling, edge-of-your-seat psychological thriller that will leave readers questioning the nature of trust and truth.