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jennastopreading's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
I have been a fan of the Crime Junkie podcast since they had roughly 16 episodes out. so when I found out that the iconic Ashley Flowers was trying her hand at writing a novel, I had to jump on it and read it! Thank you to the publisher/Netgalley for granting me access to read it early.
This was a solid debut for Flowers and really showcased her ability to tell a story. At times I felt like I could hear her reading in her voice. The Indiana setting was perfectly described (as someone who lives in the neighboring state of Kentucky, I loved the small state representation) and the cast was intriguing and well fleshed out. I enjoyed the dual timeline/perspective, and I was equally invested in both of them (which is unusual for me, I usually love one way more than the other). I appreciated that the story was fast paced, that it kept me guessing, and that it never lagged.
I was a bit frustrated with the ending of this book, but I do understand why Flowers left it a bit open for interpretation. And while that may be more satisfying for some, it left me feeling like I was missing another chapter or two.
All in all, a great debut from Ashley Flowers, and I look forward to her next book!
This was a solid debut for Flowers and really showcased her ability to tell a story. At times I felt like I could hear her reading in her voice. The Indiana setting was perfectly described (as someone who lives in the neighboring state of Kentucky, I loved the small state representation) and the cast was intriguing and well fleshed out. I enjoyed the dual timeline/perspective, and I was equally invested in both of them (which is unusual for me, I usually love one way more than the other). I appreciated that the story was fast paced, that it kept me guessing, and that it never lagged.
I was a bit frustrated with the ending of this book, but I do understand why Flowers left it a bit open for interpretation. And while that may be more satisfying for some, it left me feeling like I was missing another chapter or two.
All in all, a great debut from Ashley Flowers, and I look forward to her next book!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Blood, Dementia, and Murder
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Cursing, Stalking, and Pregnancy
Minor: Infertility, Miscarriage, and Death of parent