A review by savvyrosereads
Little Rumours by Bryony Pearce

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Out in the U.S. on June 21, 2022 [Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!]

Rating: 4/5 stars

Three women—Aleema, Kelly, and Naomi—each have their own secrets and losses, all of which collide when Aleema’s daughter Mia suddenly goes missing.

I thoroughly enjoyed this one! I frequently find myself infuriated by characters in thrillers, and while these characters were no exception, I also felt for them and their unique struggles, losses, and motivations. I especially enjoyed the supporting characters, all of whom were well-rounded (and some of whom were surprisingly but refreshingly wholesome!)

I would have loved a few more misdirects in the plot (I love multiple twists!) but I was also generally surprised by the whodunit (and certainly intrigued by the “whydunit” aspect as well), so I can’t really complain. I will absolutely be checking out Pearce’s backlist and whatever she writes next!

Recommended to anyone, but especially if you like: missing-person thrillers; thrillers with lovable characters; small-town settings.

CW: Animal cruelty/death; suicide attempt/self-harm; domestic abuse; mentions of sexual assault/rape; mentions of torture/murder; bullying/Islamophobia/homophobia; alcoholism; miscarriage/pregnancy loss.

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