This is an exceptional psychological thriller. It kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish, even though I had seen the film and thus knew what was going to happen.

One could say that it is the book of a sexual scandal. For what could be more scandalous than a teacher who comes to have a relationship with a minor student? But, like in a magic show with mirrors, nothing is where it should be. The roles of the characters are reversed, and the mask of friendship hides the haggard face of loneliness and despair.

The story unfolds in a way that keeps the reader guessing and second-guessing. The author does an excellent job of creating a sense of unease and tension throughout the narrative. The characters are complex and well-developed, with their own motives and desires.

Overall, this is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. It will keep you entertained and engaged from beginning to end.

With every word I'll just be disappointing Lucy.

I truly had a great affection for the story. And for once, the quotes on the book depicted it flawlessly. It was dark, sinister, and bitter.

I discovered it to be extremely interesting, and the story was so captivating that it made me eager to read it.

I didn't have a liking for any of the characters, but Barbara intrigued me. I really connected with her loneliness.

However, I'm not a psycho about it (if I may speak for myself).

Maybe it's because I can understand the feeling of being alone and having that sense of isolation.

It's not that I'm overly obsessed with it, but it just struck a chord within me.

Despite not liking the other characters, Barbara's character stood out to me in this regard.

Her loneliness was palpable and it made me want to know more about her and her story.

Overall, the book had its own charm and吸引力, even though it was a bit on the dark side.

Firstly, I must express how much more I favor the title "Notes On A Scandal" over "What Was She Thinking?". The latter seems rather incomprehensible, perhaps targeted at the so-called mummy market. Had it been on the cover of the copy I purchased, it would have deterred me from reading it.

This novel is like alluring forbidden fruit for the reader. It delves into a highly taboo subject that is often overlooked by the general public. The story is centered around the notes maintained by the strict spinster Barbara, an aging comprehensive schoolteacher. At the start of a new school term, she encounters the lively (and married!) art teacher Sheba Hart, and thus the drama commences. Barbara discovers that Sheba is engaged in an illicit affair with a mere fifteen-year-old student. The plot thickens rapidly in this book, demanding a certain level of concentration to keep track of all the characters. There are several main players here!

Written in a deliciously scandalous style, laced with upper middle class snobbery, it offers a subtle peek into the lives behind the doors of hippie-inspired Bohemia (represented by Sheba, of course), as well as themes of loneliness, guilt, obsession, and devotion (exhibited by Barbara).

I am attempting not to reveal too much in my review, as there are numerous threads in the fabric of this book. I also suggest watching the film adaptation after finishing the book. It is one of the rare adaptations that remains faithful to the original novel!

Taut, cleverly written and gripping,

Notes On A Scandal is a truly thought-provoking and disturbing book. It delves deep into the realm of an illicit affair between a teacher and a student,

presenting a great study of human nature. The author, Heller, has masterfully crafted complex and intriguing characters.

These characters are not at all likeable, yet there is something about them that remains somewhat compelling.

The story unfolds in a way that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, unable to put the book down.

Notes On A Scandal is an addictive and chilling read that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who picks it up.

I highly recommend it to those who enjoy exploring the darker side of human nature and are looking for a book that will challenge their perspectives.

It is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and those who appreciate well-written literature.