It could never happen here - Eithne Shortall

Who would have thought that PTA groups at school can be so lethal? Eithne Shortall takes this standard fixture of any school and it packs with humour and astute observations to deliver a cleverly plotted and hugely entertaining novel.

Story:

The Glass lake primary school's reputation is under threat when a scandal breaks out. PTFA's Beverley Franklin, cannot afford especially when it coincides with a school musical that is about to go national. She goes into damage control mode but when the undercurrents force the fast to surface, things quickly spiral out of control.

My review: 

• I loved the intial chapters as the characters and situations unravelled slowly. They were well etched and it was amazing to see how seemingly minor incidents had a bearing on the overall plot. 

• The viciousness with which parents fought over roles in the school musicial is humourous and yet realistic. Shortall's razor sharp observation creates for a lot of funny moments in the book, which is balanced well when events take a serious turn. 

• The school setting is vividly drawn and anyone with kids will know what it is like for parents. Shortall brings out the absurdity and the drama in this primary school setting quite well and I also enjoyed the small town, close knit community feel that really adds to the setting.

• The story moves at an interesting pace. There are different strands but it is amazing how they all come together, moving together to build up to the revelation. Great storytelling.

• Overall, a great read. The story kept me hooked and I felt totally invested in the characters. I loved the character of Beverley and her mother Frances who is a foil to her. Also the character of Nuala Patterson with her own distinctive persona and secrets is a great one.

• This could have easily been a sinister, hardhitting read but Shortall handles it with delicate humour and commendable skill. 

Totally recommend this one!