A review by sarahk_aa15
Vanishing Girls by Lauren Oliver

3.0

"Vanishing Girls" by Lauren Oliver is a psychological thriller that weaves a complex tale of sisterhood, trauma, and the elusive nature of memory. The story follows sisters Nick and Dara as they navigate the aftermath of a car accident that leaves Dara disfigured and Nick plagued by guilt.

Oliver's writing is evocative and atmospheric, capturing the eerie small-town setting of the story and the unsettling emotions that drive the characters. The nonlinear narrative structure adds to the mystery and tension of the plot but also makes it challenging to follow at times.

While the story tackles important themes like grief, trauma, and the importance of honesty in relationships, the pacing can be slow and the plot twists feel predictable. The characters, while well-developed, can also be frustrating in their choices and actions.

Overall, "Vanishing Girls" is a solid psychological thriller with strong writing and interesting themes, but it falls short in terms of pacing and predictability. It may appeal to fans of the genre, but may not be as satisfying for readers looking for a more unique or fast-paced story. Therefore, I would rate it 3.5 stars out of 5