Suspense novels and psychological fiction are not my go-to genres, but sometimes I am not in the mood for a lovely, uplifting book and I want a book that I cannot put down. Amanda Pellegrino’s The Social Climber was the perfect choice, and I was so totally engrossed in the story that I let a batch of cupcakes get scorched in the oven.

Eliza Bennett is about to marry old-money-wealthy Graham Walker, whose prestigious family name is almost revered in his home state of Vermont. Graham’s family has connections, influence, and social standing. Eliza’s resume includes a degree from Brown, employment at a prominent all-women PR firm, and she invests a huge amount of energy into working out and wearing all the right designer clothes. Graham and Eliza’s friends and colleagues see them as the perfect match.

Eliza’s resume might include some fabrications, however, carefully crafted after years of researching the Walker family. The story alternates between two timelines, the present and Eliza’s years spent at an Evangelical college after leaving her fundamentalist family. The childhood isolation and neglect that Eliza escaped taught her how to keep a secret, and how to bury her past so thoroughly that she is able to completely transform into someone else. As the wedding day gets closer, it’s clear that Eliza’s wedding plans are going to leave many unsuspecting people astounded, as they might be finally held accountable for things they thought were long-forgotten.

This book is engrossing and fast-paced. When you think you have figured it all out, there is still a small surprise or two waiting for you…and for Graham…and even for Eliza. Eliza’s past and present narratives do not come together until the end, and it’s a captivating journey. I highly recommend it, even if suspense novels are not your usual choices.