A review by tiffanysmith
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This novel is about Camille, a reporter from Chicago who is assigned to a murder case in her hometown of Wind Gap. As she investigates the case and reconnects with her family whom she hasn't spoken with in years, she finds more beneath the surface than she could have ever bargained for. I read this on a whim, never before having picked up a Gillian Flynn book. I didn't expect it to be so dark and psychological. The writing was fantastic, with a buildup to an unexpected twist. The character building was quite complex, peeling away the onion layers of Camille's past and how it affected her present. The only qualm I have is that the first half was a little slow to the hook. I personally thought the plot revolved more around the investigation, but once I discovered that it was so much more, the book captured my full attention. I'll admit, this read gave me some anxiety because it's dark. As the reader, you have to navigate Camille's emotions and thoughts with her, with a tendency toward the darker side of humanity. Some of the characters made me feel so uncomfortable and strange, and as you read on, you find that there is such a wild explanation for it all.  

---

Content Warnings

Graphic: Addiction, Body shaming, Bullying, Child abuse, Child death, Death, Drug abuse, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Sexual content, Grief, Murder, and Alcohol

Moderate: Self harm, Toxic relationship, and Toxic friendship

Well written, but descriptive. I would recommend a trigger warning for this read. The main character has cut herself extensively in the past and has urges to do so throughout the book. There is also quite a bit of alcohol, drugs, and sex as Camille navigates her emotions and relationships throughout the book.