A review by thereadingraccoon
Safe and Sound: A Novel by Laura McHugh

dark emotional hopeful mysterious sad tense 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

4.5

Safe and Sound delves into the gritty mystery of a small town, focusing on a high school senior who goes missing while babysitting her young cousins. Six years later, her cousins, now teenagers themselves, embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind her disappearance.

Grace Crow had the opportunity to leave her small Missouri town with a college scholarship, aiming to start a new life. However, just months before graduation, she disappears from her own kitchen while babysitting, leaving behind only a pool of blood. With no leads, her case remains cold until her cousins take it upon themselves to unravel the mystery, hoping to move forward and escape their hometown.

This novel presents a dark and twisted family drama, highlighting the challenges faced by a young girl striving to break free from her hometown for education and new experiences. The narrative explores themes of betrayal and confinement, especially through Grace's perspective, portraying the abuse she endured and the feeling of entrapment.

The chapters from Grace’s point of view are particularly difficult to read, depicting her hardships and struggles. Conversely, Amelia and Kylie’s chapters offer a refreshing contrast with their sharp dialogue and witty remarks, primarily from Kylie. Their dedication to the investigation, despite their youth, will resonate with readers, especially those familiar with hardscrabble backgrounds and Midwestern roots.

Overall, Safe and Sound is a compelling mystery featuring resilient young heroines who risk everything to protect their loved ones and chase their dreams. It intertwines family secrets, ambition, and a quest for justice, making it a captivating read for fans of twisty mysteries and strong female protagonists.