A review by elle_laine
Girl Next Door by Karen King

dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Vanessa and Aaron are thrilled to finally have new next-door neighbors who have children their own kids' age. Both families instantly hit it off, especially Vanessa and Aaron's two sons, Jacob and Lukas, and the new neighbor's daughter, Rachel. But paradise does not last long for the two families and soon there is trouble brewing between the teenagers. And then tragedy strikes, and Rachel's life is in danger. Many point fingers at Jacob, but was it actually him who threatened Rachel's life?

Thank you Karen King and Bookouture Audio for the complimentary audiobook in exchange for my honest and true thoughts. All opinions expressed here are mine and mine alone.

I initially enjoyed this story and plot line and was sucked in, but the ending fell a little flat in my opinion. The buildup and mystery was definitely intriguing and I really liked the multiple points-of-view from the different characters. It gave the story more suspense and inklings that lots of characters had secrets and pasts that they wanted to keep hidden. 

I am glad that I received an audiobook version of this book as I loved how the narrator brought life to the story. For thrillers in particular, I typically enjoy audiobooks more since the narrator can give it an air of suspicion and guilt and intrigue. Even though the ending disappointed me, this was still a fun audiobook adventure and I recommend it for those who are looking for a quick summer suspenseful read.