The book keeps your interest and is suspenseful. The opening chapter sets the tone for the rest of the story and the chapters alternating between present day and the past keeps the reader questioning the events in chapter one.
As the story unfolds in present day I found myself disliking the main female character BUT as I read the chapters set in the past I felt sorry for her. I did cringe at the abuse inflicted on the children. Several references to the ultra orthodox in Israel and the problems they have created and the evolving story led me to believe the author has an in depth understanding of religious fanatics. The author has good insights into the history and current politics and problems in Israel.

History has shown us many cases of religious fanatics including Jim Jones and others that have brainwashed individuals. Some religions have caused harm to children and adults in the name of their 'God'.