John Marrs' Keep It in the Family offers an intriguing dive into psychological thriller territory, with compelling characters and an unpredictable plot. Many reviewers praised its suspense and twists, although some found the pacing uneven and certain plot elements implausible. Recommended for fans of dark, domestic thrillers craving a roller-coaster read.

Readers who enjoyed Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn or The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins will be captivated by Keep It in the Family by John Marrs. This book is perfect for those who crave psychological thrillers with dark secrets, intricate plots, and shocking twists.

Keep It in the Family by John Marrs is a psychological thriller that follows Finn and Mia Hunter, first-time homeowners renovating their house with the help of Finn’s parents, Dave and Debbie. When Mia discovers a cryptic message during the renovation, it triggers an obsessive investigation into the house's dark history, revealing horrifying family secrets and deeply buried traumas. Topics in the book include violence, child neglect, child abuse, serial murder, and mental health conditions.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Unnerving

**Mia Hunter**  
A former public relations specialist from London, whose journey through personal trauma and pursuit of justice for murdered children propel the narrative. Her determination to improve herself and connect with her family forms a crucial part of the story.

**Finn Hunter**  
A complex character whose growth takes a dark turn as layers of deception unfold throughout the narrative. Initially appearing empathetic and perceptive, his darker secrets are gradually revealed.

**Debbie Hunter**  
An antagonist whose history of trauma and twisted rationale for her actions create central conflict and suspense in the story. Her character development explores the effects of a traumatic past on present behaviors.

**Dave Hunter**  
A secondary character whose relationship with Debbie and past experiences contribute to the plot as a red herring. His reluctance to confront challenges illustrates his complex role in the narrative.

**Sonny Hunter**  
The infant son of Mia and Finn, whose presence motivates contrasting parental perspectives and actions. His significance varies as a symbol of purity and a continuation of family cycles.

John Marrs

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Novel

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Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read Keep It in the Family | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Keep It in the Family Summary and Study Guide

Background

Keep It in the Family Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 6

Keep It in the Family Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 6 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 7-12 

Keep It in the Family Part 1, Chapters 7-12  Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 13-18

Keep It in the Family Part 2, Chapters 13-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 19-24 

Keep It in the Family Part 2, Chapters 19-24  Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 25-30 

Keep It in the Family Part 2, Chapters 25-30  Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 31-42 

Keep It in the Family Part 2, Chapters 31-42  Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 43-54 

Keep It in the Family Part 2, Chapters 43-54  Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 55-66  

Keep It in the Family Part 3, Chapters 55-66   Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapter 67-Epilogue

Keep It in the Family Part 4, Chapter 67-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Keep It in the Family Character Analysis

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Themes

Keep It in the Family Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Keep It in the Family Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Keep It in the Family Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Keep It in the Family Essay Topics

Keep It in the Family

Before You Read

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Who Should Read Keep It in the Family?

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Book Details