Practically Perfect in Every Way
"Perfect" people in the title of recent books often prove to be anything but. Sinister rather than saintly, perfection in these gripping tales is often associated with psychopaths, stalkers, and murder most foul. Interestingly, many of these less-than-perfect subjects are female – with readers left to decide if this is a subtle critique about societal pressures on women to be perfect, or simple misogyny.
Here are some perfectly thrilling reads available to borrow from the Toronto Public Library.
The Perfect Nanny by Leila Slimani.
If you can get past the first sentence in this book, you are in for a shocking tale. In fact, Slimani was heavily criticized for basing her novel on a real life event. Read about it in the New York Post.
The Perfect Mother by Aimee Molloy.
- Large Print
- Audiobook CD
- CD Talking Book (restricted to print disabled patrons)
- ebook
- eAudiobook
Mommy-bloggers, paren'ting wars, and the role of women as caregivers are central in this whodunit.
The Perfect Girlfriend by Karen Hamilton.
Juliette has been dumped by Nate. But Juliette is perfect – and will stalk Nate until he realizes it too. Silly Nate.
The Perfect Stranger by Megan Miranda.
- Large Print
- Audiobook CD
- CD Talking Book (restricted to print disabled patrons)
- ebook
- eAudiobook
Leah, a journalist, has left Boston after a series of legal troubles. She runs into an old friend, Emmy. When Emmy disappears Leah discovers that her friend was not what (or who) she originally believed.

The Perfect Girl by Gilly MacMillan.
Maria's daughter, Zoe, has served time for her role in a tragic accident that left three friends dead. She is determined to keep her perfect daughter's past a secret – with disastrous results.
The Perfect Neighbors by Rachel Sargeant.
Helen and Gary have moved into a new community. Helen's new perfect neighbours give her the creeps – and with good reason.



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