In "Forget" by Nicola Marsh, readers are thrust into a world that intertwines suspense, mystery, and the complexities of human relationships with a deft hand that Marsh is known for in her works. This standalone novel grabs attention from the start and offers a roller-coaster ride of emotions and twists that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

The story revolves around Brooke, a woman who has built a seemingly perfect life for herself with a caring husband, adorable kids, and a successful career. However, the emergence of a single, ominous letter in her mailbox with the word "forget" scribbled menacingly starts the unraveling of her meticulously curated existence. As Brooke struggles to maintain normalcy, more letters arrive, each one more threatening than the last, dredging up secrets from a past Brooke thought she had carefully buried forever.

Nicola Marsh's writing is potent and evocative; she conjures a tense atmosphere that thickens with every chapter. The pacing is masterful, straddling the fine line between brisk and contemplative, allowing the readers to feel Brooke’s anxiety and fear deeply. The prose is sharp, with a precision that adds to the building suspense, pulling you deeper into the murky waters of Brooke's past life, questioning what had been forgotten and why.

The strength of "Forget" lies not just in its plot or its consistent pacing, but also in its characters. Brooke, as the protagonist, is intricately crafted. Her evolution throughout the novel from a complacent, somewhat naïve character to a woman confronting her darkest demons head-on allows for a riveting character study. Supporting characters, from Brooke’s husband, Dan, to her best friend, Marissa, are well-developed, with their own fears and desires painting a realistic picture of Brooke's world and the people who inhabit it.

However, "Forget" is more than just a thriller. Through its narrative, the novel poses profound questions about the nature of memory, the reliability of one's own mind, and the lengths one would go to protect the sanctity of family and friendship from the corrosive secrets of the past. This philosophical underpinning provides a rich layer of depth to what might otherwise be just another suspense novel.

One of the novel’s few shortcomings could be considered its reliance on some genre tropes, such as the mysterious letters and the use of memory loss, which some readers might find too familiar. However, Marsh’s skillful execution and the novel's intense emotional resonance are likely to supersede these concerns for most readers.

The climax of "Forget" is particularly noteworthy. Without giving away any spoilers, the resolution of the mystery is both shocking and satisfying, with all loose ends tied up neatly, but not before Marsh challenges the reader's perceptions and expectations. The denouement not only leaves a lasting impact but also invites a contemplation of the ethics of forgetting and the inevitable confrontation with the past.

Fans of psychological thrillers and mystery novels will find "Forget" a compelling read. Nicola Marsh has managed to weave a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with a level of polish that shines through in her capable handling of plot and character. This novel confirms why Marsh remains a favorite among readers of the genre.

In conclusion, "Forget" by Nicola Marsh is a testament to her prowess as a writer of psychological thrillers. It brilliantly balances being an engaging page-turner with offering deeper, more existential musings on memory and identity. Whether you're a long-time fan of Marsh or a newcomer, this novel holds something for everyone—a testament to its appeal that should not be forgotten anytime soon.