The Perfect Child

The Perfect Child by Lucinda Berry is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of adoption and the unforeseen challenges it can bring. Christopher and Hannah, a happily married surgeon and nurse, have an ideal life—except for the absence of a child. Their lives take a dramatic turn when Janie, an abandoned six-year-old girl, arrives at their hospital. Christopher forms an immediate bond with her and persuades Hannah to adopt her.

However, Janie is no ordinary child. Her traumatic past manifests in disturbing behaviors, particularly directed at Hannah, while maintaining an angelic facade around Christopher. As Janie's actions become increasingly unsettling, the couple's once-perfect life begins to unravel. Berry, drawing from her background as a trauma psychologist, crafts a narrative that explores the dark corners of parenthood, the impact of childhood trauma, and the lengths to which people will go to keep their family together.