The Book of You / Claire Kendal / 349 pages / 5 Gold Rings December Challenge

How do you get rid of a stalker?  Clarissa has tried to politely disentangle herself from Rafe, a co-worker at the university.  When he recently held a reception at a local bookstore for the release of his first book, Clarissa attended per his invitation.  She was at loose ends after her break up with Henry.  Now she can't get rid of him.  She has contacted 999, emergency services, and was told to document the stalking/harassment.  She is relieved to be called to jury duty for a lengthy seven week trial involving kidnapping, rape, and drugs because it will necessitate a break in her routine and hopefully give her seven weeks Rafe free.  Unfortunately, this is not to be.  This is a creepy, edge-of-your-seat read.  In this her first novel, Claire Kendal has masterfully created characters with depth and breath who pull you into the story and force you to empathize and condemn.