by Rachel Hawkins

A Mystery/Thriller, 2021 by St Martin’s Press, 290 Pages 

What I Didn’t Like:

• Unlikeable main character. While not unreliable, because you can trust her to be honest about her true intentions, she isn’t particularly likable. I do think this was intentional by the author, but it’s worth noting. In fact, this is really a book filled with unlikeable characters.
• The first other voice chapter came up a bit too early, in my opinion. It felt like it sort of ruined the mystery behind the voice. Plus, it dropped huge hints that ended up sort of spoiling other things for me. 
• There’s a lot of lazy comparisons and descriptions for the characters. As a result, no one really comes alive. They all feel like caricatures of classic characters, sort of awkward and designed to emphasize a common flaw. As a result, this one has no one that stands out to remember them. In other words, it’s forgettable. 

What I Did Like:

• Good vibe at the start. There’s a “there’s something we don’t know here” vibe permeating the entire beginning of this story, which is excellent. 
• The reason people love this story is clearly and obviously that ending. I won’t spoil anything but right around Chapter 35 the vibe changes (again) and this time what’s left of the story is AMAZING. 
• A fast, fun thriller. It moves quickly and shocks, which is the point!

Who Should Read This One:

• Fans of shocking thrillers who might normally read other genres, this is a good way to find yourself falling into the genre.
• Fans of unlikeable casts.

My Rating: 3 Stars