Gill D. Anderson's Hidden from View - Review

Hidden From View by Gill D. Anderson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


A complex web of sex, lies and human relationships.

Suffering abuse at the hands of her uncle Tommy throughout her childhood, Rita continues to be scarred by her traumatic past. Meanwhile, her husband Lewis’ affair with his work colleague Tamika is building in intensity, something his Sergeant Lynn has her own reasons to exploit.

Lewis’ mother Suzanne makes it her mission to meddle in the lives of her children, both Lewis and his sister Cassie struggling with her interference. Cassie values her independence, living her life on her terms alongside her close group of friends, who each have their own struggles to contend with.

As the sins of the past impact the present, justice may be about to catch up with some, while others may finally find an escape from the shackles of their pain.

‘Hidden from View’ is Gill D. Anderson’s debut novel, a tale of drama, trauma and deviance set primarily in South Australia. This is the third of Gill's books I’ve read and, though it’s a close call between the three, it may just be my favourite so far. With elements of family saga, psychological suspense, erotica and police procedural moulded within the character-driven plot, it delves into themes of abuse and misogyny, taboos and a touch of voodoo.

The story is narrated through the perspectives of the multiple characters, featuring many anecdotes and inner monologues which give each of their tales an authentic feel, so much so that it wouldn’t surprise me if some were inspired by real events (if indeed they are purely fictional, it is testament to Gill’s skill in her character creation). More than once the structure of the novel reminded me of films like ‘Magnolia’, a multi-faceted approach to storytelling with human drama and emotion at its centre, also with some comical elements to balance the novel’s darker moments.

The antagonists often prove themselves to be particularly vile – there are references to child abuse, sexual violence and animal cruelty that some readers may find triggering or simply more than they are comfortable with. Nevertheless, these subjects are dealt with delicately and with a determination that we must strive for change. Perhaps, one day, we will finally achieve it.

Fast-paced and engrossing, ‘Hidden from View’ is a psychological portrait in shades of dark and light that explores the far-reaching consequences of our actions.



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